13 Healthiest Large Dog Breeds You Should Consider
Looking for a large dog breed that’s more likely to stay healthy over the years? While bigger dogs do tend to face more health challenges than smaller ones, some breeds have a reputation for being heartier and living longer, healthier lives—especially when they get proper care and come from responsible breeders.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the healthiest large dog breeds we’ve come across, based on both research and real-life experience.
1. Belgian Malinois
Lifespan: 14–16 years
These dogs are smart, driven, and loyal to the core. We’ve seen Malinois thrive in active homes where they get plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They’re generally healthy, with just a few recommended health checks like hips, elbows, and eyes.
2. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Lifespan: 13–15 years
The coat might look like a grooming nightmare, but the Bergamasco is surprisingly low-maintenance and hardy. They’re great with kids and not prone to many health issues—just keep an eye on hips and consider a DNA test for degenerative myelopathy.
3. Standard Poodle
Lifespan: 10–18 years
Don’t let the fancy haircut fool you—these dogs are athletic and sharp-minded. They tend to stay healthy with regular vet visits, and they benefit from screenings for hips, eyes, and inherited conditions like PRA (progressive retinal atrophy).
4. German Shorthaired Pointer
Lifespan: 10–12 years
If you love the outdoors, this breed might be your perfect match. GSPs are active, social, and generally robust. Just watch for joint issues and consider a DNA test for cone degeneration (which affects vision).
5. Azawakh
Lifespan: 12–15 years
This elegant West African sighthound is lean, healthy, and doesn’t come with a long list of known genetic issues. They do best with experienced owners, as they’re a bit independent and sensitive.
6. Siberian Husky
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Huskies are built for endurance and harsh conditions, and it shows in their health. Ours always had tons of energy and rarely got sick—but they do shed like crazy! Hips and eyes are the main things to check.
7. Alaskan Malamute
Lifespan: 10–14 years
These big, friendly sled dogs are both strong and affectionate. Ours adored being part of the family. Look out for hip issues and a rare condition called polyneuropathy, which can be screened for with a DNA test.
8. English Foxhound
Lifespan: 10–13 years
Surprisingly healthy and low-maintenance, this breed isn’t very common as a pet but can make a great companion in the right home. No official health screenings are required, but regular vet care is still a must.
9. Greyhound
Lifespan: 10–13 years
Despite their speed, Greyhounds are actually couch potatoes at home. They’re sweet-natured and tend to be pretty healthy. Heart and eye checks are recommended, along with a test for greyhound-specific polyneuropathy.
10. Doberman Pinscher
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Dobies are loyal, energetic, and surprisingly affectionate. They’re generally healthy, but it’s important to screen for heart and thyroid issues, as well as Von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder.
11. Old English Sheepdog
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Known for their shaggy coats and big personalities, these dogs are usually healthy with the right care. Keep up with grooming and screen for hips, thyroid, and exercise-induced collapse (EIC).
12. Rottweiler
Lifespan: 9–10 years
Rotties are strong, loving protectors. They can be prone to joint and heart problems, so it’s key to get them from a breeder who does health testing. Our Rottie was a gentle giant who loved snuggling more than guarding.
13. German Shepherd
Lifespan: 7–10 years
German Shepherds are loyal and versatile, but they can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Regular vet care, good breeding, and proper exercise make a huge difference in their health and longevity.
Some Quick Tips for Raising a Healthy Large Dog:
- Choose a responsible breeder who does recommended health testing.
- Feed a high-quality diet that supports joint and bone health.
- Keep them active—large breeds need both exercise and mental stimulation.
- Stay on top of vet visits and follow through with any recommended screenings.
- Watch their weight—extra pounds can really strain their joints.
From our experience, large dogs can be incredibly rewarding companions. With a little extra care and attention, many of them live long, happy lives full of tail wags and couch cuddles.